Definitions
1.verbTo hang in equilibrium; to be balanced or suspended; hence, to be in suspense or doubt.
2.verbTo counterpoise; to counterbalance.
3.verbTo be of a given weight; to weigh.
4.verbTo add weight to, to weigh down.
5.verbTo hold (something) with or against something else in equilibrium; to balance, counterpose.
6.verbTo hold (something) in equilibrium, to hold balanced and ready; to carry (something) ready to be used."I poised the crowbar in my hand, and waited."
7.verbTo keep (something) in equilibrium; to hold suspended or balanced."The rock was poised precariously on the edge of the cliff."
8.verbTo ascertain, as if by balancing; to weigh.
9.adjectivePossessing poise, having self-confidence.
10.adjectiveReady, prepared."He stood there, poised to act, and then suddenly he drew his gun in a smooth arc."
11.adjectiveBalanced, in position, equilibrium